Plans have been announced to build a new Blue Reef aquarium at the harbourside in Bristol, which will increase the number of Blue Reef aquariums in the UK to five.

Set to open in summer 2009, the £4 million aquarium will be situated in the IMAX building in an area formerly occupied by Wildwalk science centre. It has also been confirmed that Blue Reef will operate the existing IMAX theatre, which will show nature and wildlife films when the complex re-opens.

The marine animals on display will comprise native, tropical marine and freshwater species and habitats will be themed to demonstrate the types of conditions the creatures would normally live in.

Renovations to the building are due to begin in July.

For further information telephone 0117 915 7152